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December 05, 2016Saguaro National Park December 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

September 19, 2016Celebrate National Public Lands Day with Service
National Public Lands Day is a day set aside to celebrate land that is publicly owned by the American people and encourage those people to come out and enjoy a day in their public lands. This Saturday, September 24, all 413 National Park sites across the country are joining Saguaro National Park in waiving entrance fees to celebrate the day and many are hosting volunteer opportunities for people who choose to serve in honor of the day.

September 16, 2016Saguaro National Park October 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

August 18, 2016Saguaro National Park September 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

July 25, 2016Kinney Road Construction
Saguaro National Park and the Federal Highway Administration are preparing to begin a project to rehabilitate and resurface Kinney Road withinthe park's west Tucson Mountain District.

July 21, 2016Saguaro National Park Seeks Public Comment Regarding Proposed User Fee Increase
Saguaro National Park proposes an increase to the park's 7-Day Private Vehicle Entrance Permit from $10 to $15. The seven day pass admits a private vehicle and all of its occupants into the park for oneweek. If approved, the increase would go into effect on January 1, 2017. The increase in fees will help bring the park into alignment with the entry costs for other similar parks, a phased process which began in 2015.

July 01, 2016Saguaro National Park Continues Efforts to Restore Native Sonoran Desert Habitat
With the recent increase in monsoon activity, the conditions are optimal for native plant restoration work in Saguaro National Park. To protect and restore native vegetation and restore wildlife habitat, the Park uses ground-based field crews to manually remove and apply herbicides to buffelgrass. By controlling buffelgrass, the risk of fire in the lower Sonoran Desert is mitigated and the native plants do not have to compete for resources like nutrients and water.

June 26, 2016Saguaro National Park July 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

May 23, 2016Saguaro National Park June 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

April 25, 2016Saguaro National Park May 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

March 14, 2016Saguaro National Park April 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

February 20, 2016Saguaro National Park March 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

January 22, 2016Saguaro National Park February 2016 Guided Programs Schedules
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

December 29, 2015Saguaro National Park January 2016 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

August 19, 2015Saguaro National Park September 2015 Guided Programs Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this summer that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations

July 20, 2015Saguaro National Park Resumes Work to Restore Native Vegetation
With the recent increase in moisture brought on by monsoon rains, conditions are optimal
for seasonal restoration work to resume in Saguaro National Park. The park will be using groundbased
field crews to apply herbicide on buffelgrass and improve conditions for native plants.

June 29, 2015Saguaro National Park August 2015 Guided Program Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this summer that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance
fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

June 10, 2015Saguaro National Park Announces Fee Changes
Starting on June 15, Saguaro National Park will increase Back-country camping fees from $6 per night to $8 per night, and the Saguaro National Park annual pass from $25 to $35. Regular weekly entrance fees are not being increased. All fees collected at Saguaro National Park stay in the park and are used to fund important maintenance projects and educational programs within the park.

June 07, 2015Saguaro National Park July 2015 Guided Program Schedule
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this summer that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations

May 17, 2015June 15 Programs
Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this summer that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; visitors should call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

April 23, 20152014 Economic Benefits News Release
Tucson, AZ – A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 673,752 visitors to Saguaro National Park in 2014, spent nearly $41.6 million in communities near the Park. That spending supported 610 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of more than $58 million.

April 20, 2015Junior Ranger Camps News Release
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is seeking 6 to 11 year old day campers to participate in the long-standing tradition of Junior Ranger Camps in the Rincon Mountain District (east) this summer.

April 17, 2015March 2015 Program Schedule
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this spring that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

April 16, 20152015 NP Fee Free Weekend
Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park is joining with the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation to celebrate 2015 National Park Week, including free entrance to both districts Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19.

April 06, 2015Buffelgrass Volunteers for Buffelgrass News Release
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is looking for volunteers to assist pulling buffelgrass within the Rincon Mountain District (east) this Saturday, April 11. Interested volunteers should meet at the park's Rincon Mountain Visitor Center at 8:00 am. Please park in the Administration parking lot (first right turn after entering the park, follow the signs to the parking area just south of the visitor center parking lot). From the visitor center, park staff and volunteers will carpool a short distance to the work site and hike off trail to the buffelgrass location.

March 31, 2015SNP Joins Find Your Park Movement
Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park joins parks, programs and partners across the country to encourage everyone to find their park and share their stories online at FindYourPark.com. Launched yesterday by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, Find Your Park is a public awareness and education campaign celebrating the milestone centennial anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016 and setting the stage for its second century of service.

March 27, 2015Wildflowers IDed at Bioblitz
Tucson, AZ – On March 7, Saguaro National Park held a winter wildflower Bioblitz. Over 100 enthusiastic individuals participated in seven botanist led guided hikes across the park and identified 99 species of winter annual flowering plants. Eighty-three species of flowers were identified in the Tucson Mountain District (west) and 59 species were identified in the Rincon Mountain District (east).

March 18, 2015New Bilingual Exhibit News Release
Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park and Friends of Saguaro National Park officially opened the new bilingual exhibit collection in the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center on Thursday, March 12.

March 17, 2015Cesar Chaves Day Free Admission News Release
Tucson, AZ – Enjoy the beautiful spring weather in your backyard national park, with free admission into both districts of Saguaro National Park Monday on March 30: Cesar Chavez Day. New visitor center exhibits, a Hispanic heritage film, and a bilingual guided hike will also be offered.

March 16, 20156th Annual CCC Day News Release
Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park is pleased to be hosting the 6th Annual Civilian Conservation Corps Recognition Day event on Saturday, March 28, from 9am to 4pm in the park's west district.

March 11, 2015April 2015 Program Schedule News Release
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this spring that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

February 21, 2015Wildflower Mini Bioblitz
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park's Tucson Mountain District (west) and Rincon Mountain District (east) are offering the opportunity for the public to join Tucson botanical experts in performing a species inventory of blooming wildflowers in Saguaro National Park.

February 19, 2015Regional Conservation Org Bi-national meeting
Tucson, AZ - In an effort to establish working relations between National Parks and Reserves on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border, Saguaro National Park and its partners Sonoran Joint Venture, Sky Island Alliance, and Friends of Saguaro National Park will host a week-long meeting and training in Tucson, February 23-27, with their Mexican counterparts.

February 18, 2015March Program Schedule
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this spring that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change;call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

February 02, 2015President Requests $3 Billion for NPS
Tucson, AZ – Today, the White House presented a budget request including a $432.9 million increase for the National Park Service in 2016, the agency's 100 year anniversary, to provide support for critical conservation, preservation, and recreation mission.

January 19, 2015Saguaro National Park February 2015 Program Schedule
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this winter that explore the park’s wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park’s website, www.nps.gov/sagu , or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

January 08, 2015Saguaro National Park Seeks Volunteers for Buffelgrass Pulling in the Rincon Mountain District (east)
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is looking for volunteers to assist pulling buffelgrass within the Rincon Mountain District (east) this Saturday, January 10. Interested volunteers should meet at the park's Rincon Mountain Visitor Center at 8:00 am. Please park in the Administration parking lot (first right turn after entering the park, follow the signs to the parking area just south of the visitor center parking lot). From the visitor center, park staff and volunteers will carpool a short distance to the work site and hike off trail to the buffelgrass location.

December 29, 2014Saguaro National Park January 2015 Program Schedule
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this winter that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

November 10, 2014Saguaro National Park to Waive Entrance Fees for Veterans' Day 2014
Tucson, AZ – Saguaro National Park will be joining national park units across the country in celebrating Veterans' Day with fee-free entry into the park. The 401 units of the National Park System preserve and protect many of the country's most significant scenic and cultural places.

October 23, 2014Saguaro National Park November Program Schedule
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this fall that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.

September 25, 2014Visit Saguaro National Park for Free on Public Lands Day
Tucson, AZ - Saturday, September 27 is Public Lands Day across the nation. It is a day set aside each year to celebrate land that is publicly owned by the American people and encourage those people to come out and enjoy a day in their public lands. All 401 National Park sites across the country are joining Saguaro National Park in waiving entrance fees to celebrate the day and many are hosting volunteer opportunities for people who choose to serve in honor of the day.

August 15, 2014Saguaro National Park Expands Efforts to Fight Buffelgrass on Parklands
Tucson, AZ – Starting on Tuesday, August 19, visitors to Saguaro National Park may see a low flying helicopter as aerial delivery of herbicides is initiated to control buffelgrass in certain areas of the park. The National Park Service recently approved a Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment that includes aerial application of herbicide to control invasive non-native plants in places deemed unsafe or too remote for control by ground crews (see maps). Ground-based crews will continue to control invasive non-native plants in accessible areas.

August 15, 2014Final Deer Head Fire Update
Tucson, AZ–Fire managers anticipate minimal Deer Head Fire activity to continue due to increased monsoon moisture. Pockets of heavy dead and down fuels in the interior of the burn may creep and smolder until the area receives significant precipitation, and they are extinguished. The fire remains at approximately 1,097 acres and is 75% contained. All Rincon Mountain District backcountry closures will remain in effect for the duration of the Deer Head Fire to ensure public safety. This will be the final update unless significant changes occur.

August 14, 2014Hohokam Road Closed Due to Flooding
Tucson, AZ – For the second time this week, monsoon season storms have caused flash flooding in the Saguaro National Park’s Tucson Mountain (West) District. The rain this afternoon damaged and washed out segments of the Scenic Bajada Loop Drive, including all of Hohokam Road except the segment leading to the Sus Picnic area. Golden Gate Road was not damaged and remains open.

August 14, 2014Increased Moisture Has Decreased Fire Activity
Tucson, AZ – The Deer Head Fire continues to creep and smolder within the fire’s perimeter, however increased relative humidity and recent precipitation have limited the fire’s spread. The fire remains at approximately 1,097 acres and is 75% contained.

August 13, 2014Crews Have Repaired All Roads in Saguaro National Park's Tucson Mountain District
Tucson, AZ - Monsoon season storms caused flash flooding in the Saguaro National Park's Tucson Mountain (West) District yesterday afternoon. The flooding damaged and washed out many segments of the Scenic Bajada Loop Drive and resulted in closures of all the dirt roads in the Tucson Mountain (West) District, except the segments leading to the Sus Picnic Area. As of this afternoon, crews have repaired all of the roads in the Tucson Mountain District and all of Tucson Mountain District roads have reopened.

August 13, 2014Deer Head Fire Operations Scale Down
Tucson, AZ - The Deer Head Fire remains approximately 1,097 acres and 75% contained. Firefighters will begin demobilizing from the Deer Head Fire today, as recent monsoon conditions have slowed the fire's progress. The 10-person Sequoia Type 2 Wildland Fire Module will demobilize from the fire this morning, with the 10-person hand crew from Yellowstone National Park expected to demobilize on Friday. The seven person Saguaro Wildland Fire Module, along with local overhead resources, will continue to staff the Deer Head Fire.

August 12, 2014Monsoon Season Storms Cause Flash Flooding in Saguaro National Park's Tucson Mountain District
Tucson, AZ- Monsoon season storms have caused flash flooding in Saguaro National Park’s Tucson Mountain (West) District this afternoon. The flooding has damaged and washed out many segments of the Scenic Bajada Loop Drive. As a result, all of the dirt roads in the Tucson Mountain (West) District, except the segment leading to the Sus Picnic Area, have been closed at this time.

August 12, 2014Rain Expected to Damper Deer Head Fire Activity
Tucson, AZ – The Deer Head Fire remains at approximately 1,097 acres and is 55% contained. Increasing moisture and humidity have slowed the fire’s progression in recent days and similar conditions are expected to persist throughout the week. Fire activity is expected to continue to decrease with the return of monsoon weather conditions and potential for precipitation.

August 11, 2014Fuel Loads and Moisture Influence Deer Head Fire
Tucson, AZ – The Deer Head Fire remains at approximately 1,097 acres and is 55% contained.
The fire’s eastern flank remains active, and firefighters continue to direct the fire’s spread away from sensitive resources such as the historic Manning Camp. The park’s strategy is to keep the fire east of Heartbreak Ridge.

August 10, 2014Deer Head Fire Fifty Five Percent Contained
Tucson, AZ – Aerial reconnaissance yesterday afternoon showed that the Deer Head Fire grew, slightly, to approximately 1,097 acres. It is now 55% contained. The fire’s eastern flank remains active, and firefighters continue to direct the fire’s spread away from important resources such as the historic Manning Camp. The Park’s strategy is to keep the fire east of Heartbreak Ridge.

August 09, 2014Deer Head Fire Continues to Meet Objectives
Tucson, AZ – The Deer Head Fire remains approximately 1,076 acres. This surface fire continues to benefit a fire-adapted ecosystem, burning in a mixture of brush, grass, and ponderosa pine and oak litter with low to moderate intensity. Increasing moisture and humidity have slowed the fire’s progression in recent days and similar conditions are expected to persist throughout the weekend.

August 08, 2014Deer Head Fire Grows Slightly
Tucson, AZ – Global positioning instrument surveys of the Deer Head Fire indicate that it has grown
slightly to 1,076 acres. The lightning caused fire is being managed for natural resource benefits, in
the federally-designated Wilderness area of the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park.

August 06, 2014Deer Head Fire Smoke Column Visible Again From Tucson
Tucson, AZ – Smoke from the Deer Head Fire will be visible today over the Rincon Mountains. The lightning caused blaze is being managed for natural resource benefits in the federally designated Wilderness area of the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park.

August 5, 2014Deer Head Fire Activity IncreasesTucson, AZ - Deer Head Fire activity increased yesterday. This was anticipated with the onset of another lull in monsoon moisture. The south and east portions of the fire showed the most fire activity causing firefighters to work along the Heartbreak Ridge Trail, and east of the trail, to establish buffers intended to confine westward progression of the fire in coming days.

August 4, 2014Dry Weather Anticipated For Deer Head FireTucson, AZ - The Deer Head Fire remained at 850 acres on Sunday, with low fire activity due to lingering moisture from the previous day's storms. Yesterday, firefighters concentrated on improving control features already in place and reducing fuels along key park trails outside of the current fire area. Clearing brush and undergrowth from these trails now will give firefighters a head-start, should fire activity levels increase this week. Today's work includes widening and improving the control lines already in place, and more fuel reduction as needed.

August 3, 2014Significant Rainfall Eludes Deer Head FireTucson, AZ - The lightning ignited Deer Head Fire remains 850 acres in size. Although many areas surrounding the Tucson Basin received significant rainfall Saturday, The Deer Head Fire are received a scant .08 inches. Firefighters yesterday monitored and patrolled the fire area. Mindful of the need to protect Manning Camp, firefighters continue to apply tactics to keep the fire from moving in that direction. This lightly burning fire is providing significant value to natural ecosystems, allowing fire managers to achieve many resource objectives.

August 2, 2014
Fire Crew Contains Jackalope Fire; Deer Head Fire Activity ReducedTucson, AZ - The Jackalope Fire was declared 100% contained at 2:00 pm today, but firefighters will continue to monitor the area until it is determined to be 100% controlled. The fire perimeter has now been mapped, and indicates a total of 30 acres were burned. The fire never reached lower elevation desert habitats. The Deer Head Fire has grown to 850 acres. A small amount of growth occurred Friday on the Southeast section of the fire, adding 25 acres to the previous day's totals. Crews continue to manage this fire as a natural event to allow natural processes to occur while providing renewal of vegetation, recirculation of nutrients, and increased habitat benefits to wildlife.

August 1, 2014Firefighters Continue Suppression of Jackalope Fire; Monsoon Moisture Has
Moderated Deer Head Fire ActivityTucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is bringing in twenty additional firefighters to help suppress the Jackalope Fire. A Type 3 helicopter will continue to provide support, dropping water from a bucket. Cooler temperatures and early morning precipitation have helped moderate fire activity. Fire managers anticipate full containment by this evening. The Deer Head Fire in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park is still active and has grown to 826 acres. The Manning Camp area near the fire has received approximately .24 inches of rain since yesterday. Cool temperatures and increased moisture likely will slow fire activity over the next several days.

July 31, 2014Firefighters Suppressing New Lightning Ignited Fire in the Rincon MountainsTucson, AZ - Fire managers are responding to a new lightning-ignited fire in Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountain District. The Tanque Verde Fire is located on Tanque Verde Ridge, near Juniper Basin. It is burning in grass and juniper at an elevation of approximately 6,000 feet. The fire was first reported today at approximately 2:30 pm. It is currently estimated to be approximately 10 acres.

July 31, 2014Deer Head Fire Smoke Plume Visible From Mescal Road and BensonTucson, AZ - Wednesday afternoon, the smoke plume from the lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire, burning in the Saguaro Wilderness of Saguaro National Park, was very visible from the south along Interstate 10. The fire was burning in pockets of pine on the southeast and southwest corner of the fire, which increased the overall size to 754 acres of land burned. Firefighters conducted a burnout of approximately seven additional acres on the southern perimeter.

July 30, 2014Deer Head Fire Continues to Provide Resource Benefits for Rincon MountainsTucson, AZ - The lightning ignited Deer Head Fire, burning in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park, continues to provide resource benefits. The slow moving surface fire has grown to approximately 650 acres. Fire Fighters were hampered in efforts to conduct burnouts by a small amount of rain that fell over the fire area on Tuesday. These burnout operations along the north and south perimeter of the fire will be attempted again to insure Manning Camp is protected and to create additional firefighter safety zones.

July 29, 2014Monsoon Lull May Increase Fire Behavior in Saguaro National ParkTucson, AZ - The lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire, named for nearby Deer Head Spring, is burning in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park. Yesterday's helicopter GPS survey update indicates it has grown to 550 acres. Fire behavior was light yesterday, due to high humidity and cool overnight temperatures. Rainfall at the fire has been minimal with no precipitation recorded yesterday. Today and tomorrow the weather forecast calls for lower humidity and increased temperatures. These conditions are expected to lead to increased fire activity.

July 28, 2014Crews Prepare for Increased Fire Activity Due to Drier Weather ForecastTucson, AZ - The lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire burning in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park is approximately 320 acres. This figure is an estimate based on GPS data from a helicopter flight late Saturday afternoon and visual estimates from firefighters on the ground. Fire behavior the past two days has been mild, due to high humidity and cooler overnight temperatures. Rain events over the last two days have produced only small amount of precipitation on the fire and fire activity likely will increase later this week as drier weather is predicted to return.

July 27, 2014Deer Head Fire in Rincon Mountains Continues to Grow Slowly
Tucson, AZ – The lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire has slowly grown to 229 acres this morning. Increased humidity and a light rain have kept fire behavior mild. Many areas in southeastern Arizona received substantial amounts of rainfall last night and early this morning, while the Rincon Mountains received only a light sprinkle. Today and tomorrow observers might notice an increased column of smoke as the day progresses due to drier conditions. Also some fire activity might occur from anticipated strategic burn outs to increase safety zones for fire fighters along the northern perimeter of the fire between Mica Mountain and Reef Rock. The burnouts will be small and are in an area that was scheduled for prescribed burning later in the year. Currently, the fire is not threatening any historic structures in the Rincon Mountains.

July 26, 2014Deer Head Fire Continues to Burn in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National ParkTucson, AZ - The lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire burning in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park is estimated to be approximately 135 acres as of Saturday morning, having expanded slightly towards the east, away from Manning Camp. Fire behavior continues to be mild due to high humidity and cooler overnight temperatures. Saguaro National Park is managing the fire for multiples objectives, including using fire to achieve natural resource benefits and to reduce hazardous fuels.

July 25, 2014Rincon Mountain District Backcountry ClosuresTucson, AZ - For the safety of hikers and campers, some trail and campground closures have been enacted. All off-trail areas within Saguaro National Park east of Douglas Spring Trail and Manning Camp Trails are also closed.

July 25, 2014Deer Head Fire To Be Managed For Multiple ObjectivesTucson, AZ - The lightning-ignited Deer Head Fire burning in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park is estimated to be approximately 115 acres as of Friday afternoon. Fire behavior was mild due to high humidity and showers. Saguaro National Park will be managing the fire for multiple objectives, including using fire to achieve natural resource benefits and to reduce hazardous fuels.

July 14, 2014Saguaro National Park Resumes Work to Restore Native VegetationTucson, AZ - With the increase in moisture brought on by monsoon rains, conditions are optimal for seasonal restoration work to resume in Saguaro National Park. The park, along with other city, county, state and other federal agencies, will be using ground-based field crews to apply herbicide on buffelgrass and improve conditions for native plants.

July 4, 2014Naturalization Ceremony Held at Saguaro National ParkTucson, AZ - Twenty people from 20 countries became United States citizens in ceremonies held on the Fourth of July at Saguaro National Park, Tucson Mountain District. The ceremonies were held in partnership with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

July 2014Saguaro National Park July Program ScheduleTucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this summer that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website.

April 23, 2014Saguaro National Park's Restoration Plan FinalizedTucson, AZ - The environmental compliance process for Saguaro National Park's Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment (EA) is complete, and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) has been signed by Sue E. Masica, Director of the National Park Service's Intermountain Region.

March 25, 2014CORRECTED Saguaro National Park April Program ScheduleTucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this spring that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program Listings are also available on the Guided programs webpage.

March 18, 2014Saguaro National Park Hosts Civilian Conservation Corps Recognition DayTucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is pleased to host the Fifth Annual Civilian Conservation Corps Recognition Day. The event will be held on Saturday, March 29, from 9:00am to 4:00pm in the Tucson Mountain District (west). This year the program features appearances by CCC historians; displays of photos, newspapers, and memorabilia; book signings and conversations with authors; documentaries and films about the era; and guest speakers on a variety of topics. CCC alumni are among the invited guests.

January 27, 2014Safety Improvement Work on Picture Rocks Road will Resume on February 3Tucson, AZ - Commuters and visitors who use Picture Rocks Road, Sandario Road, or Kinney Road could potentially face delays due to road construction starting on February 2, 2014. There will be temporary electronic signage installed during the last week of January to warn motorists of the coming traffic changes and to remind them to slow down upon entering the construction zones.

November 4, 2013Saguaro National Park to Begin Work on Picture Rocks Road
Tucson, AZ - Commuters who use Picture Rocks Road could potentially face minor delays due to road construction starting November 20. Workers will be out along the road shoulders trimming brush and salvaging sensitive plant species located along road shoulders.

October 17, 2013Saguaro National Park Reopened Today
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is pleased to announce that it has reopened to visitors today, following the federal government shutdown due to lapse in appropriations.

July 4, 2013Naturalization Ceremony Held at Saguaro National Park
Tucson, AZ - Twenty people from 10 countries became United States citizens in ceremonies held on the Fourth of July at Saguaro National Park, Tucson Mountain District. The ceremonies were held in partnership with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

May 8, 2013Saguaro National Park Receives 2013 Active Trails Grant
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is one of 22 national parks across the country selected to receive a 2013 Active Trails grant from the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America's national parks.

February 14, 2013March Naturalist Guided Programs at Saguaro National Park
Tucson, AZ - Highlights of Saguaro National Park's programs for March include a variety of sunset and moonlight hikes in the West District; and Cactus Caravan, Star Parties and Night Walks in the East District.

November 19, 2012Saguaro National Park Offers Moonlight Programming in the Tucson Mountain District (West)
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is inviting the Tucson community out to the Tucson Mountain District (west) to discover the beauty of the desert under the moonlight. Naturalist-guided hikes among the majestic saguaro cactus will be held near the time of the full moon in November, and a patio program on the night of the full moon itself features its rise over the peaks of the Tucson Mountains.

November 13, 2012Saguaro National Park Hosts Open House to Discuss Restoration Plans
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is preparing an Environmental Assessment (EA) as part of a proactive plan to restore park resources. The park is hosting a public meeting on November 27 at the Wilmot Library to discuss proposed actions in the plan. One of the proposed strategies includes aerial application of herbicide in the park's back-country to combat infestations of buffelgrass.

October 29, 2012Saguaro National Park Opens Hope Camp Trail to Bicycle Use on November 2
Tucson, AZ - Starting this weekend, the Hope Camp Trail in Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountain District (east) will be open to mountain bikes. Designation of this new multi-use trail begins November 2, 2012 after a long eight month process of public comment, approval and inclusion in the Federal Register.

July 4, 2012NATURALIZATION CEREMONY HELD AT SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK
Tucson, AZ - Twenty-one candidates were sworn in as new United States citizens by Honorable District Court Judge Jennifer Zipps today during a ceremony held in Sauaro National Park. These new citizens represented 11 different countries, including Canada, Columbia, India, Ireland, Libya, Mexico, Philippines, Russia, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago.

June 28, 2012SAGUARO TO HOST NATURALIZATION CEREMONY
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park will host a new citizen naturalization ceremony on July 4, 2012. The Honorable District Court Judge Jennifer Zipps will administer the Oath of Allegiance to America's newest citizens. This ceremony is taking place through a partnership formed with the U.S, Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

June 18, 2012SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK SELECTED AS 2012 NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION AMERICA'S BEST IDEA GRANT RECIPIENT
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park has been selected as one of 49 national parks participating in the 2012 America's Best Idea program sponsored by the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America's national parks. Inspitred by the critically-acclaimed Ken Burns documentary...designed to connect diverse, under-engaged populations throughout the United States with their national parks in innovative and meaningful ways.

June 6, 2012FIRE RESTRICTIONS BEGIN AT SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK
Tucson, AZ - Due to increased fire danger in southern Arizona, Saguaro National Park will implement fire restrictions in both the Rincon and Tucson Mountain Districts, beginning Wednesday, June 6, 2012. These restrictions coincide with similar restrictions going into effect on other public lands in southern Arizona.

May 21, 2012JUNE PROGRAMS OFFERED AT SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park is offering special programs this June that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural history. Come along on a naturalist-led walk in the park, or join a local expert for a presentation in one of our visitor centers.

March 26, 2012SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK TO HOST CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS RECOGNITION DAY, MARCH 31
Tucson, AZ--Saguaro National Park is proud host the 3rd Annual Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Recognition Day on Saturday, March 31. The event will be held at the Tucson Mountain District (west), 2700 N. Kinney Road from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Park entrance fee will be waived at the Red Hills Visitor Center for visitors participating in the CCC celebration.

March 21, 2012SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK ANNOUNCES DISCONTINUED USE OF DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BOTTLES AT ALL FACILITIES
Tucson, AZ - Today, Saguaro National Park joined a growing number of parks and universities no longer using vending machines to sell disposable bottled water or soda on site. According to the EPA, over 1,125,000,000 pints of bottled water were sold in the United States in 2011. The EPA estimates that less than 15% of those plastic water bottles are recycled; the rest go into landfills or are discarded as litter.

March 9, 2012SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK TO RE-ROUTE SECTION OF THE CARRILLO TRAIL
Tucson, AZ - Saguaro National Park will re-route a section of a popular trail in the Rincon Mountain District (East). The park plans to relocate a 0.9 mile section of the Carrillo Trail approximately 0.4 miles east of its current location, to a flatter area where it will be more sustainable and cost effective to maintain.

March 6, 2012SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK PROPOSES CONVERSION OF THE HOPE CAMP TRAIL TO A MULTI-USE TRAIL
Tucson, AZ -The National Park Service (NPS) is proposing to designate the Hope Camp Trail as a bicycle route, or multi-use trail, within Saguaro National Park. The rule is necessary because NPS general regulations require promulgation of a special regulation to designate bicycle routes located off park roads and outside developed areas.